The SUV sat parked just off the cabin’s small clearing, its black paint dull in the morning light. Piper and Ember paused a few meters away, hidden behind a cluster of low trees, their boots sinking slightly into the damp earth.The guard leaned against the side of the vehicle, hands folded over his chest. Recognition flickered in Piper’s eyes, Vlad’s guard. She had seen him once before.He didn’t move toward them or speak.Ember’s arms crossed over her chest, brows creasing. “What now?” she asked. Her voice carried the usual sharpness, but Piper noticed the tremor beneath it, the part of her that knew things were heavier than sarcasm could carry.Piper stayed still, observing, letting her heartbeat settle. She didn’t panic, she simply watched the guard and then glanced at Ember. Ember’s eyes mirrored the questions Piper had no words for.Finally, Ember whispered, “Are we…leaving?”Piper nodded, slowly. They moved quietly along the perimeter, keeping the guard in sight without closing
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